TV
Tension gripped Gupte Ghat in Rajnagar block of Kendrapara district on Saturday morning after locals detained a youth allegedly carrying a firearm in his bag. The incident triggered panic in the area, with villagers holding the man for over two hours until police arrived.
Eyewitnesses said the youth was first spotted loitering suspiciously near a liquor shop close to the ghat. When confronted, he appeared inebriated and reportedly spoke in broken Bangla. On searching his belongings, villagers were shocked to find a gun inside his bag.
The absence of valid identity documents heightened suspicions, with locals fearing the bag might also contain explosives. Out of caution, they avoided a thorough search and continued to restrain him until authorities reached the spot.
Villagers On Edge As Police Delayed
Locals told sources that despite repeated calls, no police personnel reached the spot for hours. As of the last reports, the detained youth remained surrounded by villagers, who grew increasingly anxious.
Kendrapara IIC, when contacted, said police had taken note of the incident and a special team was being rushed to Gupti Ghat. “We have received information about the detention of a youth with a weapon. A team is on its way to verify facts and take necessary action,” the officer said.
ALSO READ: Four Bangladeshi nationals detained in Odisha’s Paradip
Identity Still Unclear
As of now, neither the youth’s name nor his place of origin has been confirmed. His broken Bangla speech has raised speculation that he might be from across the border.
Notably, Gupti Ghat, which lies on the route to Bhitarkanika National Park, is a busy crossing point frequented by villagers, tourists, and officials. The recovery of a gun from the spot has alarmed residents, who fear the possibility of larger networks operating in the region.
